Lung cancer awareness is not just for smokers

November is National Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout the month, thousands of people across the country will come together at events focusing on education and awareness of the disease. Originally started as Lung Cancer Awareness Day in 1995, the event has transformed into a month-long series of events about lung cancer.

Whether you have lung cancer yourself, survived the disease, or care for a loved one with lung cancer, here are some ways you can participate:

National Shine a Light on Lung Cancer Vigil This vigil is the largest nationally, and now internationally, coordinated awareness event for lung cancer. On Tuesday, November 13, volunteers and participants around the globe will participate in community-planned vigils featuring personal stories from survivors, caregivers, and health care professionals, as well as to share information and resources and rally a call to action. Visit www.lungcancer alliance.org/shinealightonlungcancer/ for more information.

Fundraise Host your own event to raise money for lung cancer research and awareness: Have a bake sale, jewelry party, wine tasting, garage sale, or restaurant night (ask a local restaurant to donate a percentage of their sales on a designated night). Be creative!

Proclamations Many lung cancer advocates receive proclamations from local governments declaring November as Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Ask your local leaders to grant a proclamation in your community!

Risk factors for lung cancer

Research has discovered several causes and risk factors for lung cancer. A risk factor is anything that changes the chance of developing a disease. Lung cancer risk factors include

Smoking

Secondhand smoke from other ­people's cigarettes

Radon gas in the home

Substances around home or work, including asbestos, ionizing radiation, and other cancer-causing substances